I know what you mean. Having been involved with a Triumph TR6 and a friend that has an original mini. I know exactly what I am missing. The wonder if my lights will work, and the ignition, oh the lack of an oil puddle under my car. The greasy bloodied knuckles from the weekends under my car....I had a super bug too, so I know the diff between those two. The new bug is missing that nostalgic no defrosters, puppy's breath heat on your ankles. 300 mile oil changes since there was no oil filter.
Its real easy to be nostalgic when you dont have to rely on that outdated antique as daily transportation. Do I like the original mini better than the new? Styling, yes..THe actual living with it no way. That's the reason why my Kawasaki Zephyr get more miles than my '71 Norton Commando.
WRX? cool, but quirky Subie styling, Air scoop looks like a mail box opening.
GTO? Little bigger than Mini and Subie.
Paul